The Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe in Islamabad hosted a reception to commemorate the 45th Anniversary of Zimbabwe’s Independence. The event was attended by dignitaries, diplomats, officials, and members of the diplomatic corps. The Federal Minister Jam Kamal, invited as the Chief Guest, was thanked by Zimbabwe’s Ambassador Titus M. J. Abu-Basutu for gracing the occasion.
In his remarks, Ambassador Abu-Basutu highlighted Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and the international support that led to independence on April 18, 1980. He paid tribute to Pakistan’s vital moral and material support, referencing its documented role in the UN Special Committee on Decolonization.
The Ambassador recalled the main national celebrations held in Zimbabwe under the theme “Zimbabwe @ 45; Devolve and Develop Together towards Vision 2030”, emphasizing President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s call for inclusive development through provincial celebrations.
Reflecting on diplomatic relations, Ambassador Abu-Basutu noted that Zimbabwe and Pakistan established ties in 1980, with embassies in each other’s capitals. He expressed pride in being Zimbabwe’s first resident Ambassador to Pakistan, underscoring strong fraternal ties in defence, education, culture, and sports.
He recalled the contribution of the late Pakistani Air Marshal Azim Doudpota in shaping Zimbabwe’s Air Force, and commended the Pakistani diaspora in Zimbabwe, especially cricketer Sikandar Raza, who hails from Lahore and now captains Zimbabwe’s national team.
The Ambassador acknowledged Pakistan’s role in providing scholarships under the Pakistan Technical Assistance Programme (PTAP), which has helped Zimbabwean students in the medical and engineering sectors. He also mentioned the ongoing visit of a Zimbabwean delegation exploring educational cooperation under the “Look Africa, Engage Africa” policy.
Calling for greater economic engagement, Ambassador Abu-Basutu highlighted low trade volumes and invited Pakistani investors to participate in Zimbabwe’s key trade expos and explore opportunities in agriculture, mining, manufacturing, tourism, and infrastructure.
Promoting tourism, he described Zimbabwe as “a world of wonders,” inviting guests to visit destinations like Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, Nyangani mountains, Great Zimbabwe ruins, and experience the country’s hospitality.
On foreign relations, the Ambassador reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to peaceful global engagement and collaboration under the South-South cooperation, the Non-Aligned Movement, and the Group of 77 and China. He congratulated Pakistan on securing a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2025–2026 and assured Zimbabwe’s support.
A commemorative cake was also cut by Ambassador Abu-Basutu, joined by the Chief Guest and ambassadors from African countries, symbolizing solidarity and celebration of Zimbabwe’s milestone.
The reception concluded with a message of enduring friendship: “Long Live Zimbabwe and Long Live Zimbabwe-Pakistan fraternal relations.
